Behavior Intervention at ASUA

Members of the Royal behavior team from left to right: Bobby Swift, John Patrick, Shannon Kelly, Kayla Griffin, Jacque Kaczmarczyk, and Tyrone Phillips. Not pictured: Matt Beach

At ASUA, our approach to behavior is guided by the fundamental principle that our students deserve to be educated, loved and safe. We know that every student that walks through our doors has different needs and experiences that drive how they interact with the world around them. 

The goal of the behavior team is not simply to address or change a behavior, but to work to understand it and respond in ways that students can learn and grow from. Behaviors are not simply responded to, but turned into moments to practice communication skills, emotional regulation, self-advocacy and independence. 

Members of the Annex behavior team from left to right: Caitlyn Haynes, Armon Jefferson, Emily Gramlich, and Noa Cohen.

Our behavioral techniques and practices are rooted in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and guided by a student-first, trauma-informed care. We use individualized, evidence-based strategies to understand the function of behavior, identify what a student is communicating through their actions, and teach effective replacement skills.

This requires close collaboration not only with the students but also teachers, classroom staff and families to develop individualized behavior plans and support strategies. Families in particular are integral to this process, as they offer the most insights into their child’s needs, what works well at home and the challenges that inform what kind of support is needed.

And when progress is achieved, such as when a student independently requests a break or completes a routine they had been working on, we celebrate those accomplishments with them.

Stephen Hesson [he/him]

Brand and Marketing Strategist